Why cloud computing will be the next new thing for all of us

I recently went for a conference organized by Oracle regarding cloud computing. In a nutshell, cloud computing is just the notion of aggregating everything to the internet. In other words, the current environment of individual operating systems, individual file storage and individual licensed software will become the thing of the past.

In cloud computing, the only item that is necessary to have is a simple terminal with internet accessibility. The calculating power no longer resides on a chip but will be handled by the cloud itself. These following factors introduces a few interesting potential scenarios. These are:

1. Upfront cost of ownership reduces substantially. Instead of getting the latest computers with the fastest chip, a simple basic computer is all that is needed to do anything.
2. Education to the masses. Every child can be provided a terminal for internet based learning. The classroom is no longer defined as a physical location. Everyone can attend “a” class, no matter where there are in the world. Age will also not be a factor. Adults that did not have the opportunity to go through the standard education process can now attend. As there will not be any requirement to be at a certain place and hence meet other people in class, it minimizes “embarrassment” and hence more adults will be willing to take such classes.
3. Reduces the cost of maintaining a large quality teaching staff. With webcam and audio interaction, one quality teacher can handle a multitude of students at any point of time.
4. Ease of review and feedback. Using the internet meant everything that is done through it will be recorded. Hence, the ability to review and provide feedback will be a good learning experience not only for the students but also for the teachers and facilitators.

A few downsides to the cloud computing concept should also be noted. These are:

1. Internet infrastructure is crucial. Without a good internet infrastructure in place, the power of the cloud computing cannot be utilized effectively. This factor makes less develop countries unable to maximize of this technology to leapfrog towards the more developed nations.
2. Discipline is paramount. Using the infrastructure for non-productive activities reduces the capacity for more productive proceedings. Moreover, learning via internet will require discipline by students to remain at the terminal to learn as there will not be any form of disciplinary figure present.

For me, the benefits outweigh the negatives. I am all for the transition to cloud computing. What about you?